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Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls bring everything you love about jalapeno poppers into a hand-held snack with a crispy shell. I made these for a game day party and they disappeared faster than anything else on the table. Every bite has a creamy, spicy, bacon-filled center that pairs perfectly with cool ranch dressing. If you love appetizer mashups, these are a must try.
I first made these for my husband’s poker night and he still asks for them at every party. Not a single one was left over they are that addictive.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: Eight ounces and must be fully softened for smooth blending. Go for full fat for the richest filling.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds that classic popper tang. Shred your own for best melt and flavor.
- Thick-cut bacon: Cook until very crisp and crumble. Quality smoky bacon boosts the whole batch.
- Fresh jalapenos: Remove seeds for milder heat or keep a few for spice lovers. Pick firm glossy peppers at the store.
- Garlic powder: Brings depth to the filling. Use fresh garlic if you want an extra punch.
- Egg roll wrappers: These fry up beautifully crisp. Look for ones with no cracks for best sealing.
- Vegetable or canola oil: You want a neutral oil with a high smoke point.
- Ranch dressing: Creamy tangy dip for serving. Use your favorite bottled brand or homemade.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Filling:
- Combine softened cream cheese shredded cheddar crumbled bacon diced jalapenos and garlic powder in a large mixing bowl. Mix with a sturdy spatula until everything is evenly distributed and the filling is fluffy.
- Prepare the Wrappers:
- Take one egg roll wrapper and lay it with a corner pointing toward you like a diamond. Scoop about one third cup of filling and place it in the center.
- Shape and Seal:
- Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges to help seal. Fold the bottom corner snugly over the filling then tuck in the left and right corners toward the middle. Roll up tightly until the filling is completely enclosed pressing to keep it sealed so nothing leaks while frying.
- Heat the Oil:
- Pour about two to three inches of oil into a heavy pan or deep fryer. Set over medium heat and bring the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. To test without a thermometer, drop in a bit of wrapper and see if it sizzles immediately.
- Fry the Egg Rolls:
- Carefully lower two or three egg rolls at a time into the hot oil. Fry for about two to three minutes on the first side until golden brown then turn and fry the other side for another two to three minutes. Remove with tongs or a slotted spoon and set on a paper towel lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve with Ranch:
- Arrange the egg rolls on a platter and serve hot with a side of ranch dressing for dipping. They are best eaten fresh for maximum crispness.
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You Must Know
- So easy to customize the heat just adjust the amount of jalapeno or include some seeds
- Portable and great for potlucks or tailgate snacks
- You can air fry or bake for a lighter option
My favorite part has always been that first bite into the crisp shell. Once my youngest daughter tried making her own batch she started slipping a little extra bacon inside and now I do the same every time.
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Storage Tips
If you have leftovers let egg rolls cool completely then wrap in foil or an airtight container. Store in the fridge up to three days. To reheat place on a baking sheet at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for roughly eight minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep their crunch.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap cheddar for pepper jack for extra spice or use turkey bacon if you want a lighter option. Greek yogurt mixed with a touch of mayo can work as a dipping sauce if you are out of ranch. If you only have spring roll wrappers they can work but will be more delicate.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the egg rolls as a party snack with a platter of fresh veggies and extra ranch. I also love them as a side with chili or tomato soup. If you want to turn them into a meal try serving with a bright cabbage slaw and some sweet corn.
Cultural Historical Context
Egg rolls have roots in Chinese-American cuisine but stuffing them with jalapeno popper filling is a classic example of fusion appetizers in the US. The combination brings together comfort food traditions from many backgrounds and is especially popular at potlucks and tailgates across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of cheese works best for the filling?
Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for its bold flavor profile, and combining it with cream cheese creates a creamy, flavorful filling.
- → Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the egg rolls and refrigerate un-fried for up to a day. Fry or bake just before serving for best texture.
- → How can I make them less spicy?
Remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapenos, or substitute with milder peppers to reduce the heat level.
- → Is there a healthier cooking option than frying?
Absolutely. Use an air fryer or oven to bake the egg rolls until golden and crisp while using less oil.
- → What dips pair well with these egg rolls?
Cool ranch dressing complements the spiciness, but blue cheese dip or a zesty salsa work deliciously as well.